Latin: Carabidae
The ground beetle is a relatively large type of beetle which is known for its speed, and even as a larva it is considered to be particularly active and fast. Ground beetles are mostly harmless to humans and things in the house, but they can nonetheless cause some problems in basements and pantries.
Other than that, a larger number of beetles can be a nuisance, as we prefer not to have a home full of beetles. The ground beetles however do prefer to stay outside where they can find food and shelter. There are many different types of ground beetles, and not all are mentioned here, because the individual species is not necessarily interesting.
Appearance
Ground beetles are an agile animal, and they have robust legs, which allow them to move around quickly. There are several different species, but they do share some recognizable characteristics. They are mostly 1-3 cm long and they can be anything from dark brown to black in color. Most of them cannot fly, and if they do have wings, they cannot use them.
Like all other beetles, the ground beetle lay eggs, which turn into larvae and then pupae. The larvae are considered to be particularly active compared to other larvae. They are elongated in shape and have legs like the adult beetles. So they can get around well themselves, if they want to.
Biology and behavior
The adult female will lay her eggs in soft soil, and the eggs will hatch after a few days. Nearly Virtually all species of ground beetles are predators, and they prey on both larvae and beetles. In fact, they are considered useful as they eat many pests. Their large size allows them to eat worms, snails and larger insects. And they have even been set out in American forests where they could eat harmful butterfly larvae.
The ground beetle has a special way of digesting its feed, namely by vomiting digestive fluid on its prey. The prey will thereby be paralyzed and liquify. In other words, the beetle does not need fangs or anything else to eat its prey. However, there are some species of ground beetles that are fully or partly herbivores. These species of beetles can attack fruits and vegetables in your home, and you should therefor keep an eye out for them.
Ground beetles have a special defense mechanism that makes it recognizable. If it feels threatened, it releases a liquid from the tip of the hind body. This liquid has an odor that can be described as sharp and sour. Therefore, if you (or your children) want to try to catch a beetle, you must be prepared for a special scent on your hands.
Damage
There are not many ways in which the ground beetle can course problems for humans, but in some scenarios they can. You should not worry if you see a single ground beetle in the house, it has most likely just wandered inside in search of something to eat. It is only if you find them in your food supply that you should act.
Prevention and control
Since the ground beetle seldom search indoors be themselves, one should not focus on prevention against them. A large number of ground beetles in the home can however be an indicator that the indoor climate is too humid. There are certain health problems that result from high humidity in the home. Likewise, several different kinds of beetles and insects can be attracted, as they thrive in a humid climate. The solution is to lower the humidity.
A more aggressively approach is using ordinary insect powder. Powder where the beetles appear as well as at their entrance options. Keep children and pets away from the powder as it can be dangerous.
"Pests in House and Home"
"Bed Bugs - Bites, Stings and Itches"
"Food Pests"
"Husets dyreliv" (Insects Around the House - Only danish)
"Skadedyr i træ" (Timber Pests - Only danish)
"Stuefluen" (Common Housefly - Only danish)